A guidebook to the rich mix of summer scrambling, rock climbing and winter mountaineering on Scotland's ridges, from the remote Cairngorms to the splendour of the Cuillin. Graceful carved walkways slung between summits, twisted spines of stone - ridges can be the most beautiful of mountain landforms. With elegant lines and giddy exposure, ridge climbs emit a powerful siren call, drawing us out onto the rocks. Life on the edge has a special quality, born of the contrast of empty space all around, and intricate detail in close-up. The crests are strangely irresistible. Scotland's ridges are among the finest mountaineering lines in the country, every one a unique adventure. The variety of these routes reflects the breadth of the mountain experience: a rich mix of summer scrambles, technical rock and challenging winter climbs. This book covers both the popular classics and some obscure gems, aiming to celebrate these thrilling climbs as much as to document them. Along the way it explores landscapes of magnificent diversity, ranging from the remote desolation of the Cairngorms to the seaside splendour of the Cuillin, the great trench of Glencoe to the surreal exhibitionism of the far north. The chosen selection spans the grade range, with routes to suit all levels of ability. Whether an earthbound hillwalker or an accomplished climber, Scotland's ridges cannot fail to stir your imagination.

Scotland's Winter Mountains with one axe - A selection of thirty easily accessible, done in a day, mountain journeys. All of Scotland's classic winter ridges are described in detail, including the Aonach Eagach, Liathach and An Teallach. The big gullies of the Northwest are also included, such as Deep South Gully on Beinn Alligin and Morrison's Gully on Beinn Eighe. All routes fall into the lower categories of climbing grade (I and II), meaning they are perfectly suited for a traditional approach, with just one axe and minimal amount of gear, if any. Three easy routes have been included to provide a step-up from winter hillwalking. The book contains background information and an easy-to-follow description for each of the selected outings. It is laid out in a contemporary format and supplemented with bespoke colour maps and 116 colour photographs showcasing Scotland's spectacular mountain scenery. This is an ideal book for anyone who has a love for Scotland's mountains and will take a reader on the best winter journeys from the comfort of a favourite chair. The author has taught climbing and mountain skills for 24 winter seasons in the Highlands.

Scrambling is the highly popular pursuit which combines the freedom enjoyed by the hillwalker with the more immediate excitement of the rock climber. An essential guide to the best scrambling in Scotland, this book covers both the mainland and the inner hebrides, and is suitable for scramblers of all skill levels, from complete beginner to seasoned enthusiasts. This comprehensive guide contains: Maps and images for each scramble, as well as instructions for OS maps.An introduction to the art of scrambling, and to all equipment that may be necessary.Routes for all scrambles, and easy to follow grading and quality ratings, enabling the reader to pick a scramble for any ability level. Scrambles include mountain routes such as Aonach Eagach and the Cuillin Ridge, as well as the lesser known Northern Pinnacles of Liathach.

This comprehensive book is an excellent planning resource for those who wish to venture into the Scottish mountains. Whether you are planning a walk, scramble, climb or ski tour this larger format guide has all the information the independent mountain lover needs. The guide covers all the mountainous areas of Scotland from south to north, divided into seven regions. Each regional chapter covers individual glens important for mountain-goers, groups of hills that form coherent massifs and individual hills of significance. However, this is not a route guide and detailed descriptions are not provided. The aim of the book is to inspire and entertain as well as inform; to show first-time visitors just what the Scottish mountains have to offer and provide a new perspective for those who have been before. In the descriptions author Chris Townsend has given his opinions as to the relative qualities of the walks, glens, lochs, mountains and the landscape in general and highlighted those he thinks are the best the area has to offer. Includes: Descriptions of all the Scottish mountains, area-by-area from south to north, to help you identify the best locations for hill walking, mountaineering, climbing and ski touring Classic ascents and walks described, from scrambles up Ben Nevis to ski tours in the Cairngorms A planning tool for long-distance treks

50 great mountain walks in Scotland. Some of the routes described in this larger format book are well known classic challenges such as the Lochaber Traverse, the Mamores and Cairngorms 4000-ers while others approach a favourite mountain from a new angle or combine several in a testing way. Each one can be crammed into a single, long day or backpacked over two to spend a little longer in this rugged and addictive landscape. The collection spans Scotland, right across its magnificent upland areas and dramatic peaks. Routes range from 12 to 25 miles and many would make a good two-day adventure. Some can be approached by kayak or mountain bike. Over 270 ranges and summits feature in settings as varied as the snowbound Cairngorm plateaus and the land-sea jigsaw of the Hebrides, where rugged peaks rise from clear water. Few walking destinations are better suited to routes at the longer, tougher end of the scale.

This guidebook details 100 walking routes around Ben Nevis and Glen Coe, centred in 10 areas including Fort William and Glen Nevis, the Aonachs, the Mamores, Kinlochleven, Glen Coe, Glen Etive, Black Mount and Ben Cruachan. Routes are graded according to difficulty, and range between short, easy strolls and long, challenging walks with overnight bothy stays. The region's 44 Munro summits are covered, including 2 easy scrambles and the formidable traverse of Aonach Eagach's iconic jagged ridge. Alongside step-by-step route descriptions and mapping, the guide presents practical advice on transport, access, safety and where to stay plus background information on the area's fascinating geology. Many of the routes reflect the author's belief that the best rewards often lie off the popular tourist trails. Yet the highlights are all there: Buachaille Etive Mor, Aonach Eagach, the Mamores, the Grey Corries, Bidean nam Bian, Ben Starav, Carn Mor Dearg and of course, the mighty Ben Nevis. The book - like Glen Coe itself - encourages exploration and includes a helpful 'summit summary' to show different options and assist with route-planning.

Guidebook to the exhilarating Cuillin Ridge Traverse on the Isle of Skye, one of Britain's most iconic scrambles. The challenging route calls for technical skill, mental and physical stamina and a head for heights: although much of the exposed knife-edge ridge is on the cusp between climbing and walking - allowing for fast progress unimpeded by ropes or pitching - there are scrambling sections to Grade 3, technical climbs to Severe and a handful of abseils. The traverse is typically completed over one or two days. The guide has all the information needed to plan and complete the traverse. The first volume covers planning and preparation and includes a recommended gear list as well as tips on rope work, weather, safety, logistics, route options, escape routes and potential bivi sites. Since training will maximise your chance of success, also included are 10 practice routes in the Cuillin. Finally, notes and advice are provided for those wishing to tackle the route in winter. Volume two has route description and maps, and clear photo topos illustrating lines of ascent/descent, with points on the route numbered consistently across text, maps and topos to facilitate navigation. The sheer length of the ridge combined with technical terrain and continual exposure mean that this is no small undertaking. However, the rewards are plentiful: on a clear day, Skye's scenery is unsurpassed and the traverse includes 11 mighty Munro summits, including the Inaccessible Pinnacle of Sgurr Dearg, a classic set-piece climb. It is little surprise that this epic challenge finds its place on so many scramblers' and climbers' bucket-lists.